Community News

Middlesex Mardi Gras event set for Feb. 24; sponsorships available

The Kiwanis Club of Middlesex and the Middlesex Family YMCA are once again preparing to host a Mardi Gras celebration at Bethpage Camp-Resort near Urbanna. The masked ball fundraiser is scheduled for Saturday, February 24, from 5 to 10 p.m. As in prior years, the evening’s activities will include live and silent auctions, fun and games, food and beverages, and dancing overseen by the as yet unnamed Mardi Gras King and Queen.

The proceeds will be used to support Middlesex school programs and scholarships and the YMCA Guardian Program.

“So you think you had fun at last year’s celebration? You ain’t seen nuthin yet. Wait until you see what we’re cooking up for 2018,” said an event spokesperson. “Some of you told us you would like to see some changes made. We listened. And as a result are hard at work figuring out how we can improve on our in-and-out processing, provide more interesting food, and more room for dancing while the auctioned items are being readied for you to take home.”

Mardi Gras co-chairs are Rosabeth Kissman for the YMCA and Greg Chambers for Kiwanis. They are spearheading the effort to recruit sponsors for the event. Businesses, organizations, and individuals are being asked to sponsor a table; a designated part of the event; or to donate auction items.

A reserved table for 8 persons goes for $600, and individual tickets for $75. Individual tickets do not come with reserved seats at a table.

For those of you who like to float, there will be tall stand-up tables and plenty of extra chairs around the room. Reserved tables are selling very quickly so if you are planning to attend, now is the time to get your tickets. Tickets can be purchased, sponsorships obtained and donations for the auctions dropped off at the Middlesex YMCA in Hartfield. Call 804-316-9191.

“We encourage you to dress in Mardi Gras costumes and beads but you may choose to wear anything from formal to rivah casual,” said the spokesperson. “Hopefully, we will be providing more information such as items donated for auction, the menu and the number of tables and tickets still available on a regular basis. Come be a part of our support group for the children of Middlesex County and enjoy our Mardi Gras celebration on February 24.”